Family stay on Réunion Island: activity ideas for young and old.

Family stay in Réunion — On an island where turquoise lagoons, primary forests, and lunar volcanoes coexist, you have plenty of choices to amaze the kids, delight the teens, and treat the parents. Here is a practical guide, designed to pace your days between swims, strolls, gourmet discoveries, and moments of pure relaxation.

Prepare a balanced itinerary that pleases everyone

The secret to a smooth trip lies in balancing highlights and downtime. Here, distances seem short, but winding roads and microclimates can lengthen travel times. Alternate active days (hiking, nature outings, visits) and light half-days (beach, market, nap in the shade of the filaos). Lodging near the lagoon makes late afternoons with the little ones easier; a base at higher elevation offers cool nights and early starts for the cirques and the volcano. For an overview before fine-tuning your program, explore this detailed overview, which helps prioritize the must-sees according to your desires.

If you’re new to the art of orchestrating vacations with several people, take inspiration from feedback and checklists. Practical tips, game ideas to keep trips occupied, and recommended pacing by children’s age are gathered in How to make your family vacation in Réunion a success?. By combining these references with seasonal weather and your priorities (lagoon, mountain, volcano, culture), you’ll build an itinerary that is both realistic and exciting.

Safe beaches and lagoons for children

The lagoons, protected by the coral reef, offer calm areas ideal for splashing and observing colorful fish. L’Ermitage and La Saline are among the most accessible: shallow water, sandy bottom, plenty of filaos for picnicking. Favor the morning, when the light is soft and wildlife more active. Bring masks, snorkels, water shoes, and a small educational net to observe, without damaging, reef life. In the afternoon, the sun is strong: increase breaks in the shade and hydrate often. To choose your spot for the day, browse this selection of the most beautiful lagoons and beaches and spot the areas supervised by lifeguards.

With toddlers, set up a simple camp: a beach tent, a mat, and a few water toys are enough. The older ones, meanwhile, love marine treasure hunts. Hand out a small list of species to find: butterflyfish, damselfish, giant clam, sea cucumber… At the end of the day, enjoy a blazing sunset over the filaos, often punctuated by the ballet of tropicbirds in the sky.

Lagoon safety tip

Respect authorized swimming zones, check the marine weather, avoid walking on the coral, and teach children to observe from a distance. A transparent bucket can become a giant magnifying glass and provide hours of fun without disturbing the ecosystem.

Easy hikes and grand panoramas

Good news: no need to be an experienced mountaineer to treat yourself to spectacular views. Several short, well-marked, shaded trails are suitable for children and offer breathtaking panoramas. In the cirque of Salazie, Hell-Bourg reveals flowered Creole houses and family walks to waterfalls. In Cilaos, opt for accessible loops starting from the Route des Canons or forest trails near the village. If you explore the lush east, let yourself be guided by the suggestions gathered in the Top 8 ideas for family getaways: a goldmine of inspiration to vary viewpoints, waterfalls, and gardens.

For the youngest, a hiking baby carrier and a cap with good coverage are essential. Teens will love the trails with evocative names (Col des Bœufs, Trou de Fer) and the vertiginous viewpoints. Don’t forget the basic gear: water, windbreaker, local snacks (bananas, chili candies for the older ones), first-aid kit. The weather at altitude changes quickly: leave early, get informed before hitting the road, and adjust the route if the mist rises.

The volcano, an accessible adventure

Piton de la Fournaise fascinates families of all ages. Without attempting a long trek, you can already amaze the kids from Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob: the view over the caldera and the cones lends itself to explorers’ tales. The most motivated will take a marked section across the lava flow, among unique mineral landscapes. To prepare this outing as well as possible (roads, walking time, equipment, respectful observation), rely on our practical guide to Piton de la Fournaise, designed for all levels.

In clear weather, the contrast between the black lava and the blue sky is fantastic. Warn the children: it’s cooler at altitude, and the wind can be surprising. A light fleece, thin gloves, and a scarf for the youngest will be appreciated, even if, for the rest of the day, you are swimming in the lagoon.

Fun and sporty activities for young and old

For gentle thrills, off-road electric scooters and cycling on coastal trails appeal to families. Beach clubs offer transparent kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided snorkeling outings. In the mountains, consider treetop adventure courses, canyoning initiation in calm pools, or a zip line over ravines. For tested and approved ideas, take a look at Top 5 activities to do as a family, a solid base for planning an active week.

Teens often dream of a tandem paragliding baptism over the lagoon. This two-seater flight, supervised by professionals, creates an unforgettable memory. If one of the children prefers to stay on the ground, arrange a handoff: a stroll along the seafront or an artisanal ice cream will keep everyone waiting. The idea is to keep challenges within everyone’s reach and alternate discovery and rest.

Observe the fauna and flora

The island is a true open-air laboratory. The youngest marvel at chameleons and butterflies; the older ones are fascinated by tree ferns, highland tamarins, and wild orchids. Botanical gardens and some educational greenhouses allow you to touch, smell, and understand. At the end of the route, ask the children questions: what did they like best? What color of fish did they spot most often? Collect their answers in an illustrated travel journal.

Markets, culture, and Creole flavors

Weekly markets are sensory exploration grounds. Bright colors, the scent of vanilla, lychees, and pineapples, sizzling fritters, and stalls of multicolored chilies: let the children put together their own picnic with fruit, samoussas, coconut candies, and fresh juice. Take the opportunity to tell the island’s story, at the crossroads of African, Indian, Malagasy, Chinese, and European influences. Creole houses, guétalis, and ex-votos in some churches bear witness to a living heritage.

To extend the immersion through the taste buds, book a Creole flavors workshop. Nothing beats a tomato rougail prepared by the children and a curry simmered together to tell the story of the trip, one spoonful after another. Back home, these recipes become Proust’s madeleines that bring back the scent of the holidays.

Smooth road trip: West, wild South and tropical East

For a first visit, focus on the West: lagoon, sunsets and quick access to the Maïdo road to take in the Mafate cirque. After two or three days, head South for its basalt cliffs, frozen flows and natural pools. The slow rhythm of the wild south coast suits children well: frequent stops to toss pebbles, feel the sea spray and listen to the surf.

In the East, waterfalls abound and the vegetation is lush. Gardens, pools and viewpoints follow one another with reasonable distances between each break. To spice up your day, pick the stages that suit you in the Top 8 ideas for family getaways if you haven’t consulted it yet: workshops, walks, gourmet stops and waterfalls will help you gauge the effort.

Well-thought-out accommodations: space, kitchen, comfort

With children, you appreciate quality bedding, a small kitchen to prepare breakfast, an outdoor space and a convenient location. Rentals and guesthouses, often with a pool, barbecue and flexible sleeping area, meet these criteria. To move from inspiration to action, feel free to see available accommodations and book dates that fit your itinerary. Depending on the season, plan a few weeks ahead to secure the best addresses near the lagoon or in the cool highlands.

Need a helping hand with logistics? Follow the how-to for booking, which details the simple steps, from first contact to check-in. Remember to specify the children’s ages, the need for a travel cot or high chair, and your preferences (beach proximity, calm, view). A attentive host will also give you their personalized advice for local outings.

Essential practical advice

Climate and clothing: the golden rule is layering. Swimsuits and light clothes for the coast; fleece, windbreaker and pants for the highlands. Closed non-slip shoes for trails, sandals for the beach. Caps, sunglasses and SPF50 sunscreen are essential.

Health and safety: first-aid kit, mister, mosquito repellent for the coast and the East, bandages for small scrapes. Respect authorized swimming areas and follow local guidelines. On hikes, inform someone close, leave early and never underestimate the weather.

Roads and travel: driving is on the right, roads are well maintained but can be winding. Anticipate travel times, especially to reach the cirques or the volcano. Children handle winding roads better after a break; plan regular stops and snacks.

Smart budget: take advantage of picnics by the lagoon and markets to limit dining costs. Nature activities (walks, observation, swimming) are often free. Book expensive activities (paragliding, canyoning) in advance and keep some jokers to offset fickle weather.

Examples of typical days to pace the trip

Lagoon day: quiet morning snorkeling at l’Ermitage, picnic under the filaos, nap, then a sunset stroll on the fine sand. In the evening, a light meal with market products and board games on the terrace.

Volcano day: early departure, photo stop at Plaine des Sables, walk on the caldera depending on the children’s age, lunch at an inn on the way back, bath in the late afternoon to relax legs. Prepare warm outfits the day before, not forgetting the camera.

Cirque day: morning drive to Salazie, visit Hell-Bourg and its traditional houses, short hike to a waterfall, Creole lunch, nap in the car on the way back, swimming in the lagoon at sunset. A day that mixes culture, nature and relaxation.

East tropical day: string together gardens, ponds and viewpoints, with an afternoon snack break under a kiosk. If rain shows up, turn it into a game: hoods on your heads, you are jungle explorers! The next day, plan a calmer day to recover.

Creative activities and souvenirs to make

For children, do-it-yourself moments make the difference. Make a tropical herbarium with fallen leaves, draw the fish you observed, or create watercolor postcards. Teens can put together a mini video report, punctuated by improvised interviews with siblings. In the evening, organize a family screening on a big screen: guaranteed laughs and lasting memories.

In the kitchen, launch a spices and curry workshop: pound turmeric, ginger, cumin and coriander, and discover chili pepper dosing. A fun way to talk about history, trade and cultural mixing, while simmering a meal to share.

Sources of inspiration to envision your trip

Nothing beats the stories of other travelers to refine your choices. Itinerary feedback, favorites, stage tips with children of different ages… Browse the journals and photographs of The Rosalie Family – Family travel blog. By comparing your wishes with lived experiences, you will identify what will matter most to your tribe: more time at the lagoon, more altitude or an extra dose of culture and cuisine.

Suggested 10-day itinerary

Days 1-3 (West): settle in near the lagoon, beach day, snorkeling, market, sunset. Early morning excursion to Maïdo for the view over Mafate, short walk along the ridges. An afternoon of gentle activity (paddleboarding or coastal cycling) and an introduction to a local culinary specialty.

Days 4-5 (Volcano): drive to the Plaine des Cafres, discover lunar landscapes, adapted walk. Return via the South coast, stop at viewpoints over the lava flows, swimming at the end of the day if fatigue sets in. Simple dinner and early bedtime.

Days 6-7 (Wild South): panoramic loop, cliffs, authorized natural pools, exotic gardens, picnics under kiosks. One morning can be dedicated to treetop adventure or canyoning initiation if the weather is favorable. Relaxing afternoon to recharge the batteries.

Days 8-9 (East): waterfalls, gardens and villages with authentic architecture. Short walks, frequent stops and local treats. If rain arrives, take shelter in a craft workshop or a gourmet spot to wait it out.

Day 10 (West): free morning at the lagoon, last souvenir shopping, then a debriefing moment where everyone shares their top 3 of the trip. Finish in style with a last sunset on the beach.

Little extras that make a big difference

Schedule empty times: they are often the children's favorite moments. Leave room for improvisation: a meeting, a song, a scent can become the highlight of the day. Bring a beach net to collect trash encountered and raise awareness among the youngest about protecting ecosystems.

Create rituals: the same evening game, the daily sunset photo or tasting a new fruit each morning. These rituals give children reference points and create continuity while traveling.

Before leaving: final checks

Documents: ID cards or passports, driver's license, insurance certificate. Health: complete kit, any treatments and prescription. Equipment: swimsuits, UV-protective lycras, walking shoes, windbreaker, sun protection, reusable water bottles, waterproof bags. Also prepare calm activities for the plane or car: books, activity notebooks, podcasts, playlists.

Transport: check car rental terms (car seats, second driver), anticipate filling your gas tank before long drives and learn to read the local weather. Contact your host for last advice and the real travel times to the first swimming spot.

In conclusion

With its striking contrasts and varied experiences, the island promises an adventure where everyone finds their place: children, awakening to the living world; teens, a dose of freedom and adrenaline; parents, a precious disconnect. Alternate nature outings and peaceful moments, cook together, and collect sunsets: you will return with a mosaic of images, scents, and flavors to share for a long time. And when your program is ready, all that remains is to select the nest that will become your base on site and to lock in your dates. Have a good trip everyone and happy discoveries, from lagoons to volcanic peaks.